Paying a friend back after splitting the cost of a trip, concert tickets, or dinner should be simple, but a new report from Zelle suggests it’s becoming increasingly complicated.
Adam Klappholz, Head of Product at Zelle, joined We Are Austin to discuss the company’s new Avoidance Economy Report, which examines why more Americans—especially Gen Z—are avoiding conversations about shared expenses.
The report found that many young adults are putting friendships at risk over unpaid expenses.
Among Gen Z respondents, 76% said they have fronted money for a group trip and were not fully repaid, while more than half said it created tension or negatively affected a relationship. Nearly half reported going into debt to cover group expenses, and some admitted to muting group chats, ignoring messages, or even ending friendships over money owed.
Klappholz explained that shared experiences like vacations, concerts, and sporting events often require one person to pay upfront, making repayment conversations feel uncomfortable.
As travel and entertainment costs continue to rise, those awkward conversations can quickly become a source of financial stress.
He also shared how digital payment tools like Zelle can help friends settle up quickly, making it easier to split expenses in real time and avoid lingering payment requests that can strain relationships.
To learn more about the Avoidance Economy Report and find tips for managing shared expenses, visit Zelle.com!